US Patent 9055404 Apparatus and method for detecting proximate devices

An apparatus, method, and computer program product are described that provide for a user to share content with other users who are proximate to his or her device in a simple and intuitive manner. In some embodiments, a “wave” gesture is used to identify users of devices that nearby to the source user's device with whom the source user may communicate, such as to share content. Upon receiving a first orientation input, a scanning mode may be initiated during which one or more devices proximate the apparatus are determined. A second orientation input that is different from the first orientation input, and the scanning mode may be terminated in response. As a result, a communication with at least one selected device of the one or more devices determined to be proximate the apparatus may be facilitated.